Artwork copyright David Griggs. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1989 (Part A).

Artwork copyright David Griggs. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1989 (Part B).

Artwork copyright David Griggs. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1989 (Part C).

SkyBridge, 1989

David Griggs
(American, born 1955)

Location: Captain Gray STEM Elementary, Pasco

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

SkyBridge by artist David Griggs is a three-part, hanging, sculptural installation that fills the three central atriums of the school. SkyBridge references Pasco’s history and legacy, as well as several unique features of the area in Southeastern Washington. The city of Pasco is located on the Columbia River, and a unique cable-stayed bridge connects Pasco to its neighboring communities. Pasco is also on the Pacific Flyway, which is used by birds from Canada on their annual migration journeys North and South. The surrounding area has an important history of commerce as the most inland barge-to-rail port on the Columbia River.

Each atrium features a bridge made from laminated wood beams and wood towers, connected with cables. Acrylic mirror-glass birds are set into the ceiling at various angles to reflect light into the atriums. The East Atrium features a harp made from wood and vinyl coated wire. The West Atrium features railroad tracks and ties made from redwood.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Pasco School District.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Denver, Colorado-based artist David Griggs creates public art installations. His approach to design engages the site's physical and social environment. He creates artworks that “aspire for that act of recognition when truth is found in humor, when identity and meaning are found in metaphor.”
Griggs received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Hamilton College in Clinton, New York in 1977. He received a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Colorado, Boulder in 1984.